Visit Innsbruck

Situated in the western arm of Austria, Innsbruck is nestled up against the Alps and provides access to Brenner Pass for those wishing to pass into Italy. It’s the lowest of all the alpine passes and has extensive grazing areas and the crossing was regularized by the Romans in the middle era of the Empire.

The first roads through the pass were finished around the second century and a presence has been in place ever since. There’s a lot of other sites that will demand your attention with a visit to Innsbruck. Let’s take a look at what else you can see and do with a visit to this beautiful Austrian city!

The Hofkirche Might Just Be the Best Church in Austria

The primary attraction in Innsbruck is the Hofkirche and it’s no wonder why so many in this city take pride in this magnificent building. It’s a Gothic church that was commissioned in 1553 by Ferdinand I and no expense was spared in the design and construction of this building. It was designed as a royal court church, but strolling through the sanctuary today will make you feel like royalty as well. Extravagant and lavish, this building is simply stunning when lit at night.

Another one of the wonders from the 15th century that you’ll find in Innsbruck is the Hofburg. Built initially for Sigmund the Rich, Maximilian I expanded the palace and gave it an upgrade so that it had a Baroque feeling to it. The Giant’s Hall is the masterpiece of this building, at over 31 meters in length featuring a magnificently painted ceiling and intricate detail.

Are You Looking For More Treasures?

If these beautiful buildings aren’t enough treasure for you, then take some time to go through the Tiroler Landesmuseum. It contains artifacts that date back to the Bronze Age and there are a number of exhibits that will take you through the history of the region with original art helping to depict the events that are shown.

If you’re still in the mood for more museum fun, then the Volkskunst Museum is the next stop to make. There are a number of carved sleighs and Christmas cribs that will strike you immediately, but then you’ll move onto the collection of cow bells and the carnival masks and forget all about what you just saw! The highlight of this stop is the restored Gothic parlor that features an antique tiled oven and a surprisingly low ceiling.

Any stop to Innsbruck wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Die Wilderin. It’s a relaxed dining experience that has a rotational menu featuring seasonal ingredients. Everything is locally sourced, so the farm to table concept is in full force here. It’s expertly prepared, perfectly seasoned, and almost always busy so plan your trip in advance.

Innsbruck is a city that offers beauty at every turn. It’s the perfect city for a weekend getaway, but can provide the perfect extended holiday for anyone as well. Be sure to add these essentials to your upcoming trip and you won’t be disappointed!